Invitations for Destination Weddings

My fiancé and I can invite 30 guests to our wedding in Italy (because the villa we've rented can only accommodate that number). Our dilemma: Some of our A-listers are sure to decline -- so how do we handle the second round of invitations?

Guest lists for destination weddings are always tricky. First, get the word out early to your top 30. Consider just phoning people; some may tell you on the spot whether they can make it. Mail invitations at least eight weeks before the wedding and ask for responses within two weeks (less time than usual, but people will understand). As the regrets come in, start inviting your second tier -- as long as it's six weeks before the big date, no one should be offended.

Peggy PostEtiquette ExpertPeggy Post is a nationally recognized authority on etiquette, and an author and director of the Emily Post Institute.

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